Zelenskyy’s UPA Honor Sparks Outrage in Poland

Zelenskyy’s UPA Honor Sparks Outrage in Poland

June 12, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Business

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s May 26 decree naming a special operations unit “UPA Heroes” has triggered a negative shift in Polish public opinion. According to a Rzeczpospolita poll, 51.9% of respondents report a more negative view of Ukrainians, while Polish President Karol Nawrocki called for the removal of Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle.

Why did the “UPA Heroes” decree spark controversy?

President Zelenskyy issued a decree on May 26 granting the honorary name “UPA Heroes” to the Independent Special Operations Center “North” of the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces. Zelenskyy stated the move aims to “restore historical traditions of the national army” for the unit currently fighting Russia.

Why did the "UPA Heroes" decree spark controversy?

The decision drew criticism from politicians across the political spectrum in Poland. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded by stating there was “no intention to offend the friendly Polish people.”

Did You Know? President Zelenskyy was awarded Poland’s highest state honor, the Order of the White Eagle, in 2023.

How is the Polish public responding to the decision?

A poll published by the newspaper Rzeczpospolita indicates a significant decline in sentiment toward Ukrainians. Data shows 51.9% of respondents said their opinion of Ukrainians has become more negative following the decree.

The survey found that 31.9% of those polled were not affected by the decision. Only 4.5% reported an improved opinion, while 11.7% expressed no opinion.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this development highlights the friction between internal efforts to bolster national military morale and the necessity of maintaining strategic diplomatic alliances. The use of historically charged terminology can create significant political liability for leaders relying on international support.

What are the political consequences in Poland?

Polish President Karol Nawrocki stated that Zelenskyy should be stripped of the Order of the White Eagle. This award represents Poland’s highest state distinction.

Poland Moves to Revoke Zelenskyy’s Highest Honor After UPA Controversy

The move follows broad condemnation from various political factions. The friction suggests a possible strain on the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

What may happen next?

Diplomatic tensions could increase if the honorary name remains in place. A possible next step may involve further official demands from Polish leadership regarding the revocation of state awards.

The Ukrainian government may seek further diplomatic clarifications to mitigate the negative sentiment reported in the Rzeczpospolita poll. Analysts expect that the stability of the partnership could depend on how both nations address these historical grievances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which unit was given the honorary name “UPA Heroes”?
The Independent Special Operations Center “North” of the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces received the name.

What percentage of Poles viewed Ukrainians more negatively?
According to the Rzeczpospolita poll, 51.9% of respondents indicated their opinion had become more negative.

What is the Order of the White Eagle?
It is Poland’s highest state award, which was granted to President Zelenskyy in 2023.

How should nations balance military tradition with diplomatic stability?